Date of Conferral

12-24-2025

Date of Award

December 2025

Degree

Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)

School

Health Sciences

Advisor

Richard Jimenez

Abstract

Type II diabetes (DB2) is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, whether directly or as a comorbidity. This is especially alarming for Native Americans, who have the highest DB2 prevalence and death rates when compared to their non-Native American peers. This qualitative phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of Lumbee Tribe members in Robeson County regarding DB2. The health belief model was used as a lens through which to understand and interpret findings. In-person semi-structured audio-recorded interviews were conducted with 12 participants recruited through social media. Data were coded and analyzed using deductive thematic analysis. All 12 participants identified being diagnosed with diabetes or having a diagnosed family member. All participants identified proper nutrition and exercise as major DB2 prevention/management factors and perceived diabetes as a serious issue within the Lumbee Tribe. Half of the participants felt that Indigenous people do not perceive DB2 as a serious issue and felt that their lifestyles had room for improvement for reducing DB2 risk factors. To address these findings, a multilevel intervention was suggested targeting Lumbee tribal members, their family/community, health care providers/organizations, Lumbee Tribal Government, and policymakers. The intervention focused on increasing interactions between the stakeholders, promoting positive health behaviors, improving DB2 health education, forming partnerships to seek funding for programs, and providing culturally appropriate care. Findings may promote sustainable positive social change by providing new knowledge that may be useful in increasing DB2 awareness and prevention programs for members of the Lumbee Tribe.

Download

Included in

Public Health Commons

Share

 
COinS